Michelle,

EVERYONE goes through the lens confusion at all stages of photography. There are several equipment basics we all learn as we evolve in photography.

1. Cameras are like cars - they depreciate as soon as you buy them or when the next model comes out.

2. Good lenses cost more for good reason. They usually have better speed, build, contrast, bokeh, color, sharpness, etc

3. Good lenses do not depreciate much if you take care of them.

4. Lens choices are highly subjective.

5. Sometimes the lenses you get with a kit are the best buy you'll find.

So what it gets down to is research on your part

One good place I always recommend for lens research is http://www.fredmiranda.com/reviews. Users leave their ratings along with the pros and cons. There are some real gems out there that take great pictures without the high price of a "pro" lens. Canon makes some of the best lenses but there are also many garbage lenses with the Canon logo on them.

Third party lenses are a great option. Once again you have to research. If you have a camera shop nearby that will rent a lens to you for a weekend of shooting that would be great. A friend my have a lens for you to evelauate. I have been known to let a friend or two use my lenses for such a purpose.

Have Fun!

Jeff

zingpix.com